In a fire sprinkler system, what is the typical pattern for an upright head?

The typical pattern for an upright fire sprinkler head is downward in a hemisphere. This design allows water to be distributed effectively across a wider coverage area below the sprinkler. When activated, the upright head directs water downwards in a circular, dome-like shape, which helps to ensure that the water reaches all surfaces within its range, thereby maximizing fire suppression efforts.

This distribution mechanism is crucial for effectively extinguishing a fire, as it allows for coverage over both horizontal and vertical surfaces, helping to control the spread of flames and smoke. In many cases, the downward spray pattern also aids in better heat absorption and faster extinguishing of flames by saturating the area directly affected by the fire.